GM Makes Transmission Control Module Repair Easier With Release of Programming Tools
The programming setup is easily accessible via a download that can be secured through a TIS2Web Service Programming subscription, GM’s next-generation Technical Information System. Seven subscription packages are offered, varying by price, expiration date and support level. With a subscription in hand, all that’s required for a tech to flash the TEHCM is a J2534 device or scan tool.
Maximizing Tools: Unconventional Diagnostic Methods, Part III
By thinking “outside the box” and using our tools to their fullest potential, we can diagnose more of the perplexing problems without spending an undue amount of time on them. In this article, our writers conclude this popular three-part series of Unconventional Diagnostic Methods, with more time-saving techniques.
Mazda Feature: Driveability And Check Engine Light Diagnostics
Import Specialist Bob Dowie takes a look at some of the more common ailments that will bring your Mazda customers into your service bay with a check engine light complaint, as he covers common DTCs, stalling and ignition issues and new technology.
The Automotive Training Group Releases Toyota & Ford Hybrid Diagnostics Course And Training Manual
The Automotive Training Group has released the 2013 Toyota & Ford Hybrid Diagnostics 7-hour course and training manual. This hybrid seminar was built from the actual failures occurring in a variety of Toyota and Ford hybrid models, so it applies directly to the diagnostic, repair and normal service challenges you’ll be seeing in your shop.
Gonzo’s Toolbox: Sometimes You Get More Than What You Pay For … But That’s Not Always A Plus
One day, one of my customers called and said he just purchased a car from the police auction, but it had some sort of strange noise coming from the driver’s-side electric seat. It seems that every time he moved it, there was a strange electrical sound. He thought there was something wrong with the seat motor. He asked me, an auto electric technician, if I would take a look at it.
Tech Tip: 2004-’05 Nissans Have MIL On With DTC P0300-P0306, P1273 Or P1283
Technicians may encounter an MIL “On” with one or more of the following DTCs stored: P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306 (cylinder misfire); or P1273, P1283 (A/F ratio lean). Injector resistance may cause one or more of the listed DTCs to be set. Check the resistance of the injectors against the values in this bulletin.
Audi Tech Tip: MIL On With P1545, P0121, P0123, P0221 Or P0222 Stored In ECM
The MIL is on, with a number of incident memory entries with regard to the throttle valve are stored in the ECM. In most cases, the entries are sporadic. This may be the result of contact resistance in the ECM wiring – throttle valve.
Bringing Down The Bus: Battling A BMW No-Crank
I arrived at the shop and verified the no-crank condition. The dash lit up brightly, but no starter action was forthcoming. Beginning with the basics, I tested power supply at the ignition switch, behind the Car Access System (CAS). This is the module in which the key is inserted. Power and ground was intact; I tested at the starter and found actuation voltage unavailable for starting.
Maximizing Tools: Unconventional Diagnostic Methods, Part II
In this second installment, Riverland Technical and Community College Instructors Olle Gladso, Vladimir Postolovskyi and Andrew Bezhanov provide more unconventional diagnostic procedures to try with your digital mulitmeter.
Pulling Codes: A Mercedes-Benz Story – A P0300 Analysis Using Exhaust Waveforms
This article will document the P0300 code for a 1996 Mercedes-Benz. A single cylinder misfire has occurred, and the technician decides to clear the code in my presence. I advised that it is a good strategy to maintain the code information for review. It’s clear that misfire activity can be challenging on some ignition systems, and I’ve found through my research that all of the car manufacturers appear to run their monitors in a similar fashion, but it’s still wise to review their service information for the differences and details of their systems.
Tech Tip: Volkswagen Check Engine Light Is On With Trouble Code P2187
The check engine light is on, with trouble code P2187, too lean off idle bank 1. This “Fast Fix” from Identifix shows how one tech solved this issue.
PCM Diagnostics Case Study: No-Code Misfire Diagnosis On A 1998 Toyota 4Runner
When doing mobile diagnostic work for other shops, contributing writer Gary Goms usually sees more than his share of random no-code engine performance complaints. In the following case study, the customer of a client shop complained about an intermittent rough idle on his well-maintained 1998 Toyota 4Runner, but only when it was driven in hot weather. The client shop couldn’t duplicate the complaint, no matter how long the engine ran. Of course, the lack of DTCs didn’t help the diagnostic process.